Two Children
Painting on canvas • Vincent van Gogh (1853-1890)
Style & Movement
Post-Impressionism / Expressionist influence
Medium & Technique
Oil on canvas; Post-Impressionist impasto technique with bold, rhythmic brushstrokes and heavy application of paint.
Creation Period
1890
Dimensions & Format
51.2 x 51 cm; Square format
Subject Description
A portrait of two young girls from Auvers-sur-Oise, depicted in blue dresses and white bonnets. The composition is a close-up frontal view with a stylized landscape of green paths and village cottages in the background. The figures show the expressive, slightly distorted facial features characteristic of the artist's late style.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent; The work is well-preserved with stable impasto and vibrant color retention.
Estimated Market Value
$40,000,000 - $60,000,000 USD (Estimated based on recent sales of major late-period Van Gogh works)
Auction Estimate
$35,000,000 - $55,000,000 USD
Provenance History
Originally in the collection of Dr. Paul Gachet, Auvers-sur-Oise; subsequently entered the collection of the Musée d'Orsay, Paris.
Art Historical Significance
Painted in June 1890, just weeks before the artist's death. It represents Van Gogh's intense output in Auvers and his interest in capturing the simple, rustic life of the village residents. It is a key example of his late-style portraiture.
Notable Features
Features the rhythmic 'wave' brushstrokes in the background typical of his late period; use of contrasting primary and secondary colors (blue, yellow, green).
Condition Issues
Minor age-appropriate craquelure; some flattening of impasto may have occurred during historical lining processes.
Conservation Recommendations
Maintain in a climate-controlled environment with low UV light exposure. Glazing with anti-reflective museum glass is recommended for display.